EC allows expats to use expired passports for voter registration

The Election Commission (EC) has kept the provision allowing Bangladeshi expatriates to submit either valid or expired Bangladeshi passports, or foreign passports, as part of the required documents for the voter registration, reports BSS.

The EC also said a certificate -- completed in the designated format and signed by three Bangladeshi NID holders residing in the respective foreign country -- confirming the applicant's Bangladeshi citizenship will also be accepted valid. To facilitate this process, a letter signed by Khan Abi Shahanur Khan, Director (Registration and Expatriates) of the Election Commission's NID Wing, was dispatched on Wednesday to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as to ambassadors and high commissioners.

The circular titled "Voter Registration and National ID Issuance for Bangladeshi Expatriates," outlined the required documentation as follows:

Applicants are alo require to fill in online application form-2 (Ka). For the 56 upazilas/thanas in Chattogram Division designated as 'Special Area' by the Election Commission, those falling under Category C, as specified in the circular for voters of these areas, must submit a 'Special Information Form' containing additional details.

It will also require copy of valid Bangladeshi passport/expired Bangladeshi passport/foreign passport/attestation certificate by three Bangladeshi NID holders residing in the relevant country (in the designated form), while copy of Bangladeshi birth certificate (online verified), One copy of passport-size color photograph, copy of parents' NID/online Bangladeshi birth certificate/Bangladeshi death certificate (if deceased)/passport copy/succession certificate/citizenship certificate as a resident of Bangladesh/dual citizenship certificate (if applicable).

Moreover, applicants may be asked to provide supporting documents, if applicable, such as copies of educational certificates (JSC/SSC/HSC/Equivalent), Driving license/, Nikahnama (marriage certificate) and spouse's NID and citizenship certificate issued by councillor, chairman/mayor/CEO/administrator).